Presented by Henriott Group
Wintertime Workouts
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Whether you’re in full-out hibernation mode or stressed out and busy from the holidays, your exercise routine might be one of the first casualties of the season. However, continuing your workouts throughout winter will help you stay energetic and healthy during the colder months of the year, and exercise might enable you to stave off that dreaded holiday weight gain. Lack of motivation, limited time and drab winter weather can all work against your attempts at getting sufficient exercise— whatever your reason, use some of the following tips to get moving this winter.
Cold and wet weather. Whether you live in a snow-steeped area of the country or you suffer from drizzly weather and gray skies, going for a run isn’t as simple as it is during the summer. If you’re determined to brave the elements, try these tips for a safe workout:
No motivation. The holidays are busy, and winter brings fewer daylight hours and colder temperatures. Here are a few options for rekindling your interest in exercise: •
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Limited time. If you’re busy with holiday preparation and parties, sometimes you need a quick, unscheduled workout idea. Here are a few options: •
Mix up your routine; if you usually run, try weightlifting or taking a dance class.
Unplugging during the holidays gives you more time to spend with your family and relax.
Jump rope—this activity is not just for kids, as jumping rope can be a great way to get your heart rate up in just a few minutes.
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Do a quick warm-up inside, such as jogging in place or doing jumping jacks. Dress in layers that you can peel off and tie around your waist as you go. Wear gloves and a headband or hat to help protect against frostbite.
Cold weather and busy holidays don’t have to be an insurmountable obstacle for fitting in a workout. If you keep exercising during the holiday season, you’ll feel better, stay healthier and be able to justify that extra dessert.
Unplugging for the Holidays Constant connection to technology and personal mobile devices can be fun and helpful—think text messages and GPS—but being tethered to your smartphone, laptop or tablet can also increase stress, lead to reduced physical activity and decrease your ability to focus on the people around you. Less stress and more time to have fun with your family are a few of the benefits of unplugging. Here are a few tips to help you unplug for the holidays (or at least reduce your screen time): • •
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Find a new winter sport that interests you and take a class or join a club. If using gym equipment at home, put a TV in front of the treadmill. Phone a friend—sometimes a little company is all you need to get moving. If you have children, take them sledding or help them build a snow fort; wearing extra clothes and trudging through snow burns more calories than you might think!
Lift weights in the kitchen—use cans, milk jugs or whatever is convenient in order to fit in a few bicep curls while you make dinner or organize the pantry.
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Leave your cellphone and laptop in another room, or at least turn off notifications and temporarily delete social media apps to reduce temptation. Tell your family and friends that you’re unplugging for the holidays; they might even join you for a technology-free vacation. Set a specific, limited amount of time when you can access your work email, if you absolutely must check in. Plan technology-free activities—try playing board games, going sledding or bike riding, baking cookies, reading a book, hosting a karaoke night at home or reviving an old hobby.